Why is Safety Netting Necessary in Construction?

Netting is everywhere. One of its most significant roles is in the construction industry. The No. 1 cause of death on a construction site is falling from an elevation, followed by being struck by objects. The good news is that netting can prevent these accidents from happening – and often is the best line of defense against both.

Construction employees will work at an altitude at some point in their careers. For this, fall safety is an essential component on a worksite. The longer an employee functions at a given height, the more comfortable he or she will become.

Employees may begin to ignore safety processes which is a recipe for disaster. A worker can become overconfident in their capacity to perform a task.

According to OSHA, employers must provide fall protection when their workers will be working 6 feet or more above a lower level and at all times when working near dangerous machines or equipment.

Why is Safety Netting Necessary in Construction?

Fall protection includes netting, guardrails, and personal fall arrest systems. Unstable or weak roofs must have safety netting installed beneath. When dangerous equipment is present, safety should be a number 1 priority with netting being a vital and essential facet. The lack thereof will be fatal in most fall situations. If a worker lands in a fall safety net, that means all other means of protecting that employee from falling have failed. If not for the net, the individual(s) most likely would have suffered severe injuries or death. A fall’s effects can ripple for several years and will be felt by more than just the worker and their family. Traumatic events can slow down a work environment but also undermine the confidence of fellow workers.

Netting is beyond necessary on every worksite. It can protect employees from falling, it can protect workers and pedestrians from falling objects and debris, and, most importantly, it can save lives.